The 20th Annual American Music Awards

On January 25, 1993, the American Music Awards honoured Michael Jackson with the inaugural International Artists Award for “his record-breaking international concert tours and his album sales, and his heartfelt efforts to make this world a better place”. Elizabeth was on hand to present her good friend with the award, which would be known henceforth as the Michael Jackson International Artists Award. She was introduced by the show’s co-host, Gloria Estefan.

“Besides being a friend of tonight’s honouree, I’m also his greatest fan,” Elizabeth said. “I’m also very aware of the enormous accomplishments that make him the logical recipient of this prestigious award.” A short video narrated by Elizabeth highlighting some of these accomplishments was shown before she introduced a pre-recorded salute from another of Michael’s friends, Eddie Murphy.

“I love you very much, Elizabeth Taylor,” Michael said, before making his acceptance speech.